Here’s another computer tool to bring alive 3D geometry in your classes – you may even encourage students to explore a career in design, construction, architecture, or landscaping!

You can use Google SketchUp to create, modify and share 3D models.

It was designed to be easier to use than other 3D Computer Assisted Design (CAD) programs. SketchUp can also save “screenshots” of the model in common graphics formats.

Dozens of video tutorials, an extensive Help Center and a worldwide user community mean that anyone who wants to make 3D models with SketchUp, can.

Every SketchUp model is made up of just two things: edges and faces. To build models in SketchUp, you draw edges and faces using a few simple tools that you can learn in a small amount of time. It’s as simple as that.

Because you’re working on a computer, everything you create in SketchUp has a precise dimensions. When you’re ready, you can build models that are as accurate as you need them to be. If you want, you can print scaled views of your model. You can use SketchUp’s Paint Bucket tool to paint your model with materials like colors and textures. You can use the Dimension and Label tools to add dimensions, annotations and other details to your work.